Subscription Cost Calculator

Analyze the true cost of your subscriptions over time and see how much you could save by investing instead

Input Parameters
£
%
For investment comparison
%
Optional: For subscription price increases
Cost Visualization
Yearly Breakdown
Year Subscription Cost Cumulative Cost Investment Value Opportunity Cost
Total £0 £0 £0
Understanding Subscription Costs
The True Cost of Subscriptions

Monthly subscriptions may seem affordable when viewed individually, but their cumulative cost over time can be substantial. This calculator helps you understand:

  • The total amount you'll spend on a subscription over several years
  • How much that money could grow if invested instead
  • The "opportunity cost" of choosing the subscription over investing
Subscription Cost Formula

For a subscription with inflation:

Total Cost = Σ [Monthly Amount × (1 + Inflation Rate)n × 12]

Where n is the year number (starting from 0)

Investment Alternative

Instead of paying for a subscription, you could invest that money each month. The calculator shows:

  • How your investment would grow over time with compound interest
  • The difference between the subscription cost and potential investment value
Investment Growth Formula

For monthly investments with compound interest:

FV = PMT × [(1 + r)n - 1] / r

  • FV = Future value
  • PMT = Monthly payment
  • r = Monthly interest rate (annual rate ÷ 12)
  • n = Total number of months
Making Informed Decisions

This calculator isn't suggesting you should cancel all your subscriptions. Rather, it helps you make more informed decisions about which subscriptions provide enough value to justify their long-term cost. Consider the enjoyment or utility you get from each subscription against its true financial impact.

Tips for Managing Subscriptions
  1. Regularly audit all your active subscriptions
  2. Cancel services you rarely use
  3. Look for annual payment options that offer discounts
  4. Share family plans where possible
  5. Rotate subscriptions instead of maintaining multiple similar services
Common Subscription Categories
  • Entertainment: Streaming services, music, gaming
  • Software: Productivity tools, cloud storage, security
  • Lifestyle: Meal kits, fitness apps, meditation services
  • Shopping: Delivery services, membership programs
  • News & Media: Publications, newsletters, premium content